Development and Testing of a Digital Lean Tool to Sharpen Motion and Transportation Waste Recognition

Abstract

There is a need to create ways to communicate opportunities for motion and transportation waste reduction and productivity enhancement that align with the visual management characteristics of those practicing within the construction industry. In this study, researchers aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an interactive online simulation game that generates spaghetti diagrams as a tool for improving conceptual understanding of motion and transportation waste reduction, that could potentially be used by lean educators in the construction industry. The tool was developed using Unity™ and tested against a control group. To ensure the concept was relatable to participants across different roles, the commonly experienced activity of making spaghetti was chosen as the simulation scenario. Participant feedback from preliminary testing of the online simulation game indicated that the activity was enjoyable and appeared to heighten participant awareness of object placement. Metrics generated by the simulation-as well as post-play discussion-appeared to help participants perceive how elimination of motion and transportation waste can potentially improve their performance. The intent of the simulation is to spur post-simulation discussion with participants about identifying and reducing waste in their own varied processes such as job site operations and procurement.